Jen Beattie has been rewarded for an excellent season on and off the pitch, with the defender putting pen to paper to stay at Arsenal, who do not disclose the length of their contracts.

“I’m so happy to have signed a new contract,” said Beattie. “I’m happy here. I love the club. I love the group of people I work with – the players, the staff, everybody behind the team. The way the club has progressed over the last few seasons has been great to see and it was amazing to lift a trophy again last season and achieve that level of success as a team. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together next year.”

During a season plagued with injuries for Arsenal, Beattie stepped up in the centre of Jonas Eidevall’s back three, helping the Gunners reach the Champions League semi finals and winning the Conti Cup. Her formidable display against Wolfsburg in Germany was a highlight, as was her goal in the second leg in front of a sold out Emirates after being sent upfront in the final stages.

ARSENAL HAVE DONE IT! THEY HAVE EQUALISED AND THIS TIE IS STILL ALIVE! It’s Jen Beattie up from the back to score, incredible scenes at the Emirates ??? pic.twitter.com/BDjwphzGKt

— Freddie Cardy (@CardyFreddie) May 1, 2023

Away from the field, Beattie received an MBE for services to football and charity at Windsor Castle earlier this week, and her new contract will include taking on an increased role within Arsenal’s football department as Performance Lifestyle Lead. Beattie worked with Arsenal’s commercial and partnerships teams last season as well as mentoring academy players.

It’s no wonder that head coach Jonas Eidevall labelled the 32 year-old a “Model professional”.

“I am delighted that she will continue to be part of our squad next season. Her contribution on and off the pitch last year was outstanding – she stepped up time and again when called upon and set an example for others to follow. I’m proud to coach her and I know our supporters will join me in celebrating the news that Jen will remain an Arsenal player next year.”

Head of Women’s Football Clare Wheatley added: “Jen has been a fantastic servant to Arsenal and brings us so much in terms of experience and character. She made a really important contribution to the team on the pitch last season and we are all very pleased to say she will continue to represent this club next year.”

Beattie first joined the club in 2009, returning to Arsenal ten years later after spells with the likes of Montpellier and Manchester City. The Scottish centre-back has made a total of 157 appearances for the Gunners.